Padmaavat controversy updates: Karnataka bandh delays screening in Bengaluru; makers 'hope' Indians across states get to watch film

Will watch ‘Padmaavat’ with other Rajput leaders: Manish Sisodia

Condemning the attack on a school bus in Gurugram allegedly by Karni Sena supporters on Wednesday over the release of Padmaavat, Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia on Thursday said he will watch the film with Rajput leaders like him and brief the people about it later.

“I am myself a Rajput. I was totally moved because of Wednesday’s incident. This is a criminal act. I invited many Rajput leaders to discuss the recent developments and the violence (centering the movie). We are totally against these acts,” Sisodia told media persons.

“I and many other Rajput leaders will watch Padmaavat Thursday and see what is the reality and then will brief people about the film,” he said.

IANS

Watch: Suraj Pal Amu being taken into custody by Gurugram police

Video courtesy: Sat Singh/101Reporters

Posters being removed from cinema hall in Mirzapur to avoid fringe elements

Image courtesy: Saurabh Sharma/101reporters

Bhupinder Singh Hooda blames BJP govt’s failure for violence in Haryana

Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda alleged that the violence in the state was a result of BJP government’s failure in taking timely steps to take precautionary measures. “First BJP Govenment does not handle situation, then it get people killed by the bullets of police and Army”, Hooda said in Bhiwani of Haryana.

– Sat Singh/101Reporters

Fear shuts out Padmaavat in Bhopal

Image courtesy: PTI

Hope Indians across all states get to watch ‘Padmaavat’, say makers

As “Padmaavat” released in 4,000-plus screens in India, barring a few states, the movie’s makers said the first day response has been overwhelming, but they hope Indians across all states get to watch it.

“We are humbled with the response we have received for ‘Padmaavat’. Over 1 million Indians have already watched the film and occupancy levels for shows are very strong across more than 4,000 screens — with most running housefull. The feedback for the film has been overwhelming,” a Viacom18 Motion Pictures spokesperson said in a statement.

“We are grateful to the government, state authorities, police and our fans for making the opening a stellar success. We are hopeful that every Indian —  across all states —  will get a chance to see the film especially as we celebrate our great nation’s 69th Republic Day,” the spokesperson added.

Gurugram police says will act against Suraj Pal Singh ‘accordingly’

He (Suraj Pal Amu) has been taken under preventive custody. He will be produced or action will be taken accordingly: Kuldeep Singh, DCP East Gurugram #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/aOrQhGMMy9

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Multiplex vandalised in Pilkuhwa locality in Hapur district for screening Padmaavat. – Saurabh Sharma/101reporters

Schools in Gujarat’s Mahisagar district asked not to use Padmaavat songs in Republic Day events

Government schools in Gujarat’s Mahisagar district have been asked not to include programmes based on songs or scenes of the film Padmaavat during the Republic Day celebrations on Friday.

District primary education officer Kishor Jani on Thursday said that schools will organise several cultural programmes on Republic Day.“The schools have been told not to include programmes based on songs and scenes of this film during cultural events to be held on 26 January,” Jani said, adding, “It is a positive step to avoid any controversy.”

He said the suggestion has been made to the schools as there has been a controversy over the film Padmaavat, and some parts of the state have witnessed violence.

PTI

Karni Sena supporters set fire to cars owned by one of them

In an incident which took place on Wednesday, Karni Sena activists reportedly torched a Maruti Swift car belonging to one of them during a protest in Bhopal, reported India Today .

Six people were detained in connection with the incident, according to India Today. A large group of activists then assembled at the MP Nagar police station demanding that a case not be registered.

Padmaavat screened in Punjab, Haryana amid security

“Padmaavat” was screened across Punjab and Haryana on Thursday to a good response from viewers amid tension and security around multiplexes and cinema halls in both the states.

With scores of armed policemen and private guards stationed in and around the multiplexes and cinema halls, most shows reported high to full occupancy.

Haryana director general of police BS Sandhu said in Chandigarh that the film was being screened incident-free in 33 cinema halls across nine districts in Haryana. “No disturbance has been reported from anywhere,” he said.

IANS

Karnataka shutdown delays Padmaavat shows in Bengaluru

​

The shutdown across Karnataka on Thursday has delayed the screening of “Padmaavat” here as the movie halls remained shut till Thursday evening.

“As a result of the shutdown in the city, multiplexes will remain closed till about 6 pm and the Padmaavat would be screened at a majority of theatres in the city only after that,” the manager of one of the popular cinema halls said.

The 12-hour shutdown is being observed for Mahadayi river water from the neighbouring state of Goa to meet the drinking needs of the people in the state’s four northwest districts of Belagavi, Bagalkote, Dharwad and Hubballi.

IANS

Suraj Pal Amu says he does not support violence

Views about #Padmaavat are not good. History has been distorted, there are scenes which should have been deleted. I am against the film, Sanjay Leela Bhansali should be charged with anti-national activities: Suraj Pal Amu on #PadmaavatRow #KarniSenaExposed pic.twitter.com/2k8XfyoSDF

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

Suraj Pal Amu held by Gurugram police 

#Gurugram Suraj Pal Amu taken into preventive detention #Padmaavat (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/vySMTKXI44

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Watch: Bajrang Dal members burning effigy of Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Ferozabad

Video courtesy: Ajendra Sharma/101 Reporters

Section 144 imposed in Gurugram and Sonipat, reports India Today

PIL filed in Punjab and Haryana HC seeking action against Karni Sena Chandigarh

A PIL was on Thursday filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking action against Karni Sena activists for “disturbing peace” in the wake of the release of “Padmaavat”.

The Sanjay Leela Bansali directed period drama was released across the country today despite opposition from the Rajput outfit and several other organisations.

The PIL, filed by advocate Ranjan Lakhanpal, also sought directions from the court that the governments of those states where incidents of violence and protests took place be held accountable and be asked to pay for damages caused by Karni Sena activists.

PTI

Haryana DGP BS Sandhu statement on screening of Padmavat:

Any cinema owner willing to screen in his theatre can approach through concerned deputy commissioner and he would be provided complete police protection by the state police.

No Karni Sena member or organization was allowed to protest in the state after Wednesday’s violence in Gurugram.

Those protesting or trying to obstruct the screening of Padmavat would be dealt with strict action.

Around 31 persons have been arrested and four FIRs have been registered in relation to the protest regarding the movie.

No untoward incident has been reported from the cities or cinema halls where the movie is being screened.

Suraj Pal Ammu, who put Rs 10-crore bounty on Padmavati makers, is not being allowed to move out of his residence.

– Sat Singh/101 Reporters

Bihar Police says protests in state ‘done within law’ so far

Police HQ issued detailed guidelines to police force, clearly stating protection to be provided to people screening & watching #Padmaavat. So far protests have been done within the law. If there's an untoward incident we'll take action: Sanjeev Kumar Singhal, ADG (HQ), Bihar pic.twitter.com/EVOGKJHXeY

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Mumbai Karni Sena chief detained

#BREAKING -- Ajay Singh, President of Karni Sena in Mumbai, detained by police. #IWillSeePadmaavat #PadmaavatRow #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/8G8EFWUjnh

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

60% occupancy for Padmaavat in Delhi theatres for first show 

Occupancy for #Padmaavat in Delhi theatres for first show at 9am around 60pc, in Mumbai 40-45pc; response positive, says Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India member.

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 25, 2018

‘Padmaavat’ opens in Kolkata, shows running smoothly

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s controversial film ‘Padmaavat’ opened in 129 theatres in and around Kolkata on Thursday, a spokesperson of the movie distributor

said.

‘Padmavaat’ shows are running smoothly everywhere in the city with no sign of protest anywhere, a police officer said, adding that elaborate security arrangements have been put in place.

“The film is running in 129 theatres, including single-screens and multiplexes, in Kolkata and its surrounding areas and there is no report of any disruption as yet,” the spokesperson of SVF, the distributor of the film, said.

“In many auditoriums, the shows are running houseful while the response has been good in others,” she said. 

PTI

Mirzapur police detains one in connection with the petrol bomb hurled at a cinema hall on Wednesday night. – Saurabh Sharma/101 reporters

Rajasthan home minister says law and order ‘peaceful’ in state

Law&order situation is peaceful across the state. Only 2 minor incidents have been reported in Jalore& Udaipur. If multiplexes ask for protection we'll certainly give it to them.Appeal people to protest peacefully, not take law into their hands: Rajasthan Home Minister #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/Wrp5NdVovO

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Watch: Kshatriya Mahasabha announces Rs 51 lakh bounty for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s head

Video courest: Yogesh Bharadwaj/101reporters

Deepika Padukone ‘overjoyed’ to see support for Padmaavat’s release

Kshatriya Mahasabha’s Divakar Singh announces Rs 51 lakh bounty for beheading Sanjay Leela Bhansali. – Yogesh Bharadwaj/101reporters

Gurgaon school bus stone pelting ‘isolated incident’, says Haryana Police

At a press conference on Thursday, Haryana Police said, “As per Supreme Court’s order, Padmaavat has been released in nine cities in Haryana, which included Gurgaon, Faridabad, Hissar, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Rohtak, Sonipat, Rewadi. Thirty three cinema halls have been screening the movie without any interruption.”

Calling the stone pelting on a school bus in Gurugram an “isolated incident”, the police said. “Unfortunately, there was a school bus incident Gurugram. About 18 people have been arrested. Considering the offences against them, it will be difficult for them to get bail.”

The police said that police protection has been provided to cinema halls. “If anybody takes part, strict action will be taken against them. We assure the filmmakers that protection we will provided to you,” he said. A total of 54 police companies have been deployed.

Home ministry sources says two states have approached Centre for help

MHA is keeping a track of incidents around release of #Padmaavat and is in touch with all states over security measures. So far two states have asked for help from Central Govt: Sources Ministry of Home Affairs

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Thane theatre cancels late night and early morning show timings due to lack of police protection

At Cinepolis multiplex in Thane’s Viviana mall, Thursday’s night shows that were to start after 9:30 pm and Friday’s shows that were to start before 9:30 am have been cancelled as during this period, the mall won’t have police protection. Police force will be deployed for the Republic Day celebrations. 

This is to be noted that despite no semblance of threat, the multiplex has been cautious to screen the movie without police protection.

– Debdutta Mohanty/101Reporters

Bihar: Visuals from protests in Motihari 

Bihar: Members of an organisation staged a protest against #Padmaavat in Motihari. pic.twitter.com/RUgXyGbu7S

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

BSP supremo Mayawati holds BJP government responsible for violence

Image procured by Saurabh Sharma/ 101reporters

Watch: Karni Sena supporters forces shop to shut in Madhya Pradesh’s Dewas 
Video courtesy: Hitesh Sharma/101 reporters

Kshatriya Mahasabha offers Rs 1 crore bounty for actress Deepika Padukone’s ears, nose

Kshatriya community will contribute & give the person a reward of Rs 1 Crore who chops off Deepika Padukone's ears and nose: Gajendra Singh, President Kshatriya Mahasabha (24.1.2018) #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/OP9R4EmaG1

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) January 25, 2018

Haryana finance minister Captain Abhimanyu demands strict action against those involved in stone pelting on school bus in Gurugram. – Sat Singh/101Reporters

Watch: Madhya Pradesh: Karni Sena takes out rally in Dewas
 

Video courtesy: Hitesh Sharma/101 reporters

Rajput leaders in Junaghad’s Manavadar taluka seek ban on film

Junaghad’s Manavadar taluka in Gujarat closes shops in support of bandh. Rajput leaders Vikramsigh Chavda and Mahendrasigh Chavda from Junaghad led a rally and submitted a memorandum demanding ban of the film to the mamlatdar.

– Binita Parikh/101 Reporters

Why is Centre silent on violence, asks Congress’ Priyanka Chaturvedi

Congress’ Priyanka Chaturvedi on Thursday lashed out at the BJP government over the law and order issue in the country. She said, “The question is not about Karni Sena. When you are confronted with a situation like this, where people especially children suffer… What happens to you? They (BJP) should be ashamed of themselves that they continue to play politics over these issues.”

Chaturvedi hit out at the ministry and broadcasting industry. “When Smriti Irani can tweet about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s daily schedule, couldn’t she have discussed the problem with the protestors. The things you could’ve avoided, you separated yourself from them and have instead encouraged the protests,” she said.

“The question is not about Congress but about country’s law and order. Either resign or take responsibility, she added.

Tyres burnt on highway in Becharaji

Becharaji, is famous for the temple of eunuchs. Tyres were burnt on a highway in support of the bandh in Gujarat.

– Binita Parikh/101 reporters

Ruckus in Punjab’s Zirakpur town over release of Padmaavat

Shiv Sena supporters create ruckus in Paras downtown mall.

– Arjun Sharma/101 Reporters

Those accused of damaging buses of a school produced in court: 101 Reporters

Gurugram tense but peaceful now; over 1,500 cops deployed

Tension prevailed in Gurgaon but situation remained largely peaceful as heavy police presence ensured that there was no untoward incident in the city on account of Padmaavat protest. Over 1500 cops have been deployed in the city to keep the protesters in check.

Cinemagoers for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Padmaavat had to stare at cancellation circulars of the movie instead at the Ambience Mall on Thursday morning, a day after the city witnessed violence by those protesting against its release.

Despite being heavily fortified with security officials, several malls across the city where the movie is being screened appeared deserted after many people chose to stay away from any untoward  incident.

– Sat Singh/101 Reporters

Haryana DGP to address press conference at around 3.30 pm

– Sat Singh/101 Reporters

Tyres burnt on Halol Baroda highway

Tyres were burnt on Halol Baroda highway in support of a bandh to stop vehicle movement to and from Baroda in Gujarat.

– Binita Parikh/101 Reporters

Members of Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha burn Bhansali’s effigy in Sonbhadra

– Sunil Tiwari/101 Reporters

Women protesters brandish swords in UP’s Deoband

​- Vipin Bajaj/101 Reporters

PM not showing 56-inch chest to Rajputs: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi

“The prime minister has surrendered to Rajputs,” India Today TV quoted Owaisi as saying.

Here is a pretty apt take on all the chaos so far:

Bajrang Dal workers clash with police in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand: Clash between Police & Bajrang Dal workers outside a cinema hall in Rishikesh #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/69gNzsf04E

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Freedom of filmmaker must be defended: Yogendra Yadav

Haven't seen #Padmavaat, its reviews don't inspire me to do so.
But the freedom of the filmmaker must be defended.
Street goondas must be brought to the book.
Their political masters must be exposed.
Govt & Oppn's silence be questioned.

— Yogendra Yadav (@_YogendraYadav) January 25, 2018

Karni Sena members gave roses to people who came to watch the film in Lucknow’s Novelty cinema hall

– Saurabh Sharma/101 Reporters

Man tries to immolate himself in Varanasi, detained by police

Man tries to self immolate outside a cinema hall in Varanasi, detained by Police. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/lIGVaaozct

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) January 25, 2018

If our children are pelted with stones on Republic Day, it is a matter of shame for the nation: Arvind Kejriwal

Yesterday some people pelted stones on school children in #Gurugram. I couldn't sleep entire night. If our children are pelted with stones on Republic Day eve, a few kms away from nation's capital, it is a matter of shame for the entire nation: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal pic.twitter.com/IJuWTXwz1q

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Woman tries to immolate herself in Varanasi

Amit Singh/101 Reporters

Police detain protesters who tried to immolate themselves in Varanasi

– Amit Singh/101 Reporters

Here is a map to show you how massive this issue has become:

Around six people try to immolate themselves in front of a mall in Varanasi

– Amit Singh/101 Reporters

Theatre owners in Madhya Pradesh refuse to screen Padmaavat

Theatre owners in Madhya Pradesh met Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and later told the media that they are not screening the movie because they ‘respect’ public sentiments.

They also said they will review the situation in a couple of days.

– Vivek Kumar/101 Reporters

Details of the contempt petitions in SC against four states

One contempt petition has been filed by Congress supporter Tehseen Poonawalla, seeking action against governments of Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for their alleged failure in containing mobs protesting the release of the Deepika Padukone-starrer Padmaavat.

Another similar petition has been filed by lawyer Vineet Dhanda seeking initiation of contempt proceedings against Karni Sena and its office-bearers for allegedly holding violent protest against the movie in several states.

“All fresh petitions will be taken up on Monday,” a bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud said.

Both petitions referred to the various apex court orders allowing exhibition of movie in theatres across India with the observation that maintaining law and order is the duty of the state governments. — PTI

Padmaavat screening cancelled in many halls in various parts of the country

Saurabh Sharma, 101 Reporters, said that the screenings of Padmaavat at Wave and Fun cinemas in Lucknow were cancelled.

Padmaavat could also not be released in Haryana’s Yamunanagar, according to Manoj Kumar, 101 Reporters.

Acropolis mall in Ahmedabad wears a deserted look because no movies are being screened there

Attacking a school bus in not an agitation: Farhan Akhtar

Attacking a school bus is not an agitation. It is terrorism. The people who did it are terrorists. Please refer to them as such.

— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) January 25, 2018

Heavy traffic jam in Lucknow due to protest by Rajput Samman Raksha Sena

– Saurabh Sharma/101 Reporters

Attack on school bus a worrying incident: Haryana minister

It is a worrying incident,and I am sure there will be a solution to this whole issue today. Hume aisi ghatna ka andesha nahi tha: Ram Bilas Sharma,Haryana Minister on school bus attacked by vandals in #Gurugram #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/8Mi2q2h3Uj

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Cinema owners in Himachal Pradesh screen film amid tight security

#PadmaavatRow Despite threats from fringe outfits, #Padmaavat sees the light of the day in Himachal Pradesh. While Rajput Mahasabha in the state has raised objections to screening of the film in support of Karni Sena, the cinema owners have screened the film amid tight security pic.twitter.com/ldOMlrboCf

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

Padmaavat shows before 9.30 am cancelled at Viviana mall in Thane

After 9.30 am too, the mall management decided to screen the movie only when 100-odd people who had arrived to watch it insisted that the show not be cancelled.

– Debdutta Mohanty/101 Reporters

Rajputs protest in Haryana’s Karnal district

– Manoj Kumar/101 Reporters

Police arrest 24 out of the 60 protesters who had attacked school buses in Haryana

According to The Times of India , the mob which attacked the buses in Haryana consisted mostly of young boys around 20 years old. Around 24 of these protesters have been arrested by police.

“The hooligans wanted to set the bus on fire. They tried to torch a tyre. But a few of them were against harming people and didn’t let it happen,” the report quoted an eyewitness as saying.

Any Rajput will be proud to see Padmaavat: Javed Akhtar

#PadmaavatRow -- This is a dignified character and projected so well. Any Rajput who is attached to their tradition will be proud to see this: @Javedakhtarjadu to CNN-News18 #Padmaavat #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/tsHUIDT9C9

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

Shops vandalised in Udaipur

Rajasthan: Shops vandalized in Udaipur during protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/tJfgusGh5b

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Karni Sena asks shopkeeper in Gujarat’s Rajkot to shut shop….by distributing roses

– Binita Parikh/101 Reporters

Protesters brandish swords in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur

Protesters brandish swords, burn tires in protest against #Padmaavat in Muzaffarpur #Bihar pic.twitter.com/y2Id7YfDxp

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Watch: Karni Sena takes out bike rally in Jaipur

#WATCH Karni Sena members take out bike rally in protest against #Padmaavat in Jaipur #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/TqcCdLGhGS

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Activists of Loktantar Suraksha Manch raise slogans against Padmaavat in Haryana’s Rohtak

– Sat Singh/101 Reporters

Movie goers made to undergo heavy security checks in Haryana’s Sirsa

Vijay Jasuja/101 Reporters

Contempt petition filed against four states in SC

According to ANI, contempt petition has been filed against four states in the apex court. The petitioner has claimed that the four states failed to maintain law and order.

Delhi High Court refuses to entertain plea against Padmaavat

Delhi High Court refuses to entertain plea against #Padmaavat .High Court asked petitioner to approach Supreme court

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Supreme Court to hear petitions against Padmaavat on Monday

According to CNN-News18, two pleas have been filed to seek contempt action against Karni Sena.

Hindu Yuva Vahini members sit on dharna in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur

– Sadiq Khan/101 Reporters

Unidentified person set a Haryana Roadways bus afire late night in Hisar district on Wednesday. The bus was parked near the parking entry. Roadways GM visited the sight and inquiry has been ordered into the matter. The bus belongs to Yamunanagar Depot.

Sat Singh/101reporters

According to an India Today report , a car that was torched yesterday in Bihar actually belonged to a fellow Karni Sena protestor. 

Fresh plea against Padmaavat filed in courts seeking deletion of scenes from the film

A lawyer, who failed in his twin attempts in the Supreme Court in getting Deepika Padukone-starrer stalled from being released, filed his third petition against the film on the eve of its all-India release and mentioned it before a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra today.

The bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, agreed to hear the fresh plea on January 29.

Lawyer M L Sharma, in the fresh plea, has referred to the top court order of November 20 last year on his earlier plea, ordering expunction of certain details about the movie from his petition on the ground that the contents may create “disharmony”.

PTI

Congress leader Digvijay Singh says films which hurt sentiments of religion or caste should not be made.

#PadmaavatRow -- Films which hurt sentiments of any religion or caste should not be made: Digvijaya Singh on #Padmaavat #IWillSeePadmaavat

LIVE UPDATES: https://t.co/INQHw7SEiO pic.twitter.com/BYLYm4pnCC

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

Security increases around Ahmedabad and Chittor Fort as a preventive measure against protests around Padmaavat

Gujarat: Security increased outside cinema halls in Ahmedabad #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/Ujw4gwLxfm

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

#Visuals from Chittorgarh (Rajasthan): Heavy security outside Chittor Fort #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/c8JdGh5WTi

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

#Visuals from Chittorgarh (Rajasthan): Heavy security outside Chittor Fort #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/c8JdGh5WTi

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Protest in Kasganj. Uttar Pradesh, around half an hour ago against the release of Padmaavat. The police has now dispersed the mob and everything is peaceful there. 

Ajendra Sharma, 101 reporters

As Karni Sena calls for a Bharat Bandh, a huge protest has been announced in Jaipur at 10 am. However, police has made several arrangements to make sure the protests don’t turn violent. 

Ram Gopal/ 101 Reporters

This is the bus that was attacked by over 70 men with weapon in Gurugram yesterday, 24 January.

Visuals of the school bus which was attacked yesterday by vandals in Haryana's Gurugram. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/aZHyiA4TZR

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Theatres in Delhi recieve good foot fall for morning shows. News 18 reports claim theatres in CP, Rajaouri Garden are showing a rise in ticket sales. 

Delhi: Theater in Rajouri Garden witnesses good turn-out on first day, first show of #Padmaavat; movie-goers say, 'want to see the reason behind all that uproar' pic.twitter.com/qpbocKCxDK

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Protest in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh by Hindu Dharmrakshak Sainik. An effigy of Sanjay Leela Bhansali can be seen being burnt. 

Ajendra Sharma 101reporters

Ambience mall Gurgaon has cancelled movie screening of Padmaavat. A circular was posted outside the theatre entrance informing theatre-goers.

Sat Singh, 101reporters

Theatres in MP, Gujarat and Rajasthan refuse to screen the film

“Exhibitors of MP, Gujarat and Rajasthan will not screen the film, so automatically the number of screens will go down drastically. We will take stock of the situation in every town, in ever theatre and take the decision whether we want to screen the film or not because there cannot be a general rule by each exhibitor,” said Prakash Chaphalkar, secretary, Multiplex Association of India, who firmly believes that the press reports were further igniting the situation.

“We are not armies, we don’t have guns, we can only inform the police. But minimum information in the press would help in releasing the film otherwise it fuels the situation. After all, one has to consider the safety of the society. After reading reports of threats that certain theatres will be burnt down, patrons are asking us that what kind of protection and security can we give to them.” ​

Meanwhile, there are 500 security personnel in addition to the police at Jaipur Lit Fest as several Karni Sena members claimed they will not allow Prasoon Joshi, the CBFC chief, to enter the premises. At the moment, everything seems to be under control.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis  told   NDTV  from Davos that “protests against screening of Padmaavat movie is very serious but there are also incidents which are blown out of proportion”

Buses torched in protest against the release of Padmaavat in Ghaziabad in the wee hours on Thursday.

Rishabh Bharadwaj | 101reporters

Securit beefed up in Agra theatres showing Padmaavat. Police presence can be seen across the state.

Visuals of security personnel outside cinema halls in Agra. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/4Lr9geHcQN

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) January 25, 2018

Protestors from different Hindu groups burnt the effigy of Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh.

Protest erupts in Haidergarh of Barabanki, in Uttar Pradesh. They also submitted a memorandum to the district official.

Sadiq Khan | 101 reporters

Protest erupts in Haidergarh of Barabanki, in Uttar Pradesh. They also submitted a memorandum to the district official.

Sadiq Khan | 101 reporters

Security being amped up in theatres in several parts of Mumbai

Visuals from Mumbai's Sion, security outside PVR cinemas. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/o0YbtDM6Gz

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

**Rahul Gandhi hits out at Padmaavat protests ** 

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has hit out at the BJP after a school bus in Haryana’s Gurugram was attacked by Karni Sena supporters over the release of ‘Padmaavat’ and accused the party’s “hatred politics” for “setting the nation on fire”.

“There will never be a cause big enough to justify violence against children. Violence and hatred are the weapons of the weak. 

“The BJP’s use of hatred and violence is setting our entire country on fire,” Gandhi said in his tweet hours after a video of scared children crouching in the school bus targeted by hooligans protesting the Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie prompted nationwide outrage on Wednesday.

IANS

Police takes eight protestors in custody after they vandalised a bus in Ghaziabad. Meanwhile, Padmaavat won’t be screened in Mathura.

Yogesh Bharadwaj, 101reporters

Advisory issued to UP police to allow peaceful screening on Padmaavat

#BREAKING -- #PadmaavatRow: Advisory issued to all district police chiefs in UP to ensure peaceful screening of #Padmaavat. They have been asked to identify vulnerable points & act tough against anyone trying to disturb the peace. #IWillSeePadmaavat

LIVE:https://t.co/AzvTb6h5Cb

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

No screening of Padmaavat in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh today. Cinema owners have taken the decision in view of the protests. Meanwhile, four shows ran housefull yesterday at PVR Lucknow.

Saurabh Sharma | 101reporters

Bounty on Deepika Padukone’s nose?

A fringe outfit in Kanpur on Wednesday announced a cash reward for anyone chopping off actor Deepika Padukone’s nose amid the violence over release of multi-crore film Padmaavat.

“We have collected a bounty of crores of rupees from Kanpurites to be given as reward to anyone who will bring the chopped off nose of Deepika Padukone,” fringe group Kanpur Kshatriya Mahasabha president Gajendra Singh Rajawat said.

PTI

Madhya Pradhesh will not screen Padmaavat

#BREAKING -- #PadmaavatRow: No screening of #Padmaavat in Madhya Pradesh today #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/a69zCToR45

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

After facing numerous hurdles over the last many months, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much awaited period drama, Padmaavat will see release today.

But even as certain trade analysts and industry insiders are claiming that the movie will open to 75 percent occupancy, so far it’s not very clear in how many single-screen theatres or multiplexes the film is likely to be released as the cinema and multiplex owners have remained non-committal on the response to advance bookings.  They also refused to comment on how many shows or number of days they are likely to exhibit Padmaavat.

“The bookings have not been what we had expected but it may pick up. We have to wait till the 25th or the 26th to see the reaction and after that only the public will throng the theatres. But in Mumbai there should be no problem,” said Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India (COEAI) President Nitin Datar.

Delhi Police detains protestors of various fringe groups

#BREAKING -- Big crackdown done as Delhi Police carried out preventive detentions of members of various Fringe groups who were planning to protest against #Padmaavat today. The state police didn't want to take any chances as ASEAN summit is on: Sources pic.twitter.com/hMDHTkvPmv

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

Hindu Sena President Vishnu Gupta under detention

#UPDATE -- Hindu Sena President Vishnu Gupta has been put under preventive detention by Sarita Vihar Police: Sources #PadmaavatRow #IWillSeePadmaavat #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/XJhjYbXOyV

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 25, 2018

According to Financial Express , MP govt has filed a second review petition to the Supreme Court seeking ban on Padmaavat.

Parents based in Gurugram are dropping their kids to school themselves due to fear of protests that happened yesterday

There is panic, if school bus can be attacked in Gurugram then can happen in Delhi also, even here there are cinema halls near schools, so have come to drop my child to school myself: Lalit, Parent. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/M4szQokwdH

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

Arvind Kejriwal expresses concern over protests

Expressing concern over violent protests against film Padmaavat, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said it is not good for the already “dwindling” economy of the country.

If the governments and the courts cannot ensure that a movie is “released and run safely”, how will investments flow into the country, the chief minister questioned. “If all state govts, central govt and SC together cannot get one movie released and run safely, how can we expect investments to flow in? (sic)” Kejriwal tweeted. He said that such a situation where investments are discouraged is bad for job creation.

PTI

Deepika Padukone says “it’s time for us to celebrate the film”

It's time for us to celebrate & see the film do wonders at box office. The best response is the one we can give to someone through the work we do. This time I am excited about the box office because it is going to be earth shattering: Deepika Padukone #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/GeMArw39NL

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Shahid Kapoor speaks to the media on playing Maharawal Ratan Singh in the film

Prior to #Padmaavat I was nervous, because people know very less of my character (in the film). It's a very important film for me. It's tough to essay a role like this. I feel thankful & honored. We've done everything, it's time for people to decide what they feel.: Shahid Kapoor pic.twitter.com/yOXttVSS9O

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

No ‘ghoomar’ on Republic Day

Udaipur ADM SC Sharma has issued an order stating that students in both Govt and private schools should not perform on the 'ghoomar' song during #RepublicDay celebrations. #Padmaavat #Rajasthan

— ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2018

The threat to commit Jauhar by multiple women in Chittor Fort has fizzled out, reports Deccan Herald . 

As tight security takes over the area, police has stopped tourists or any public from entering the fort area. The report reveals that this move came after several members of the Karni Sena tried to barge into the fort to protest and were stopped by the police. 

At the moment, the fort looks deserted. This is also the second time in history that the fort will remain shut.

Deepika Padukone speaks to the press ahead of her film’s release

#Padmaavat has been through so much. To see it finally releasing & the reaction it is getting is extremely overwhelming. I am very excited for the release tomorrow. Big day for all of us. On behalf of entire crew we want to thank you for being so supportive: Deepika Padukone pic.twitter.com/HOq1HXBtxg

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

In Bikaner, a Congress delegation led by Gopal Gehlot handed over a memorandum to district collector Anil Gupta demanding that the film should not be released in view of public sentiments. The memorandum is addressed to the president, Gupta said.

The Supreme Court had earlier paved the way for the all-India release of the controversial film and stayed notifications and orders issued by Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat — all ruled by the BJP — prohibiting exhibition of the film.

PTI

“Janta curfew will be imposed at any cost on cinema halls," says Karni Sena chief
​
Amitabh Jain, a senior official of Inox Cinemas, said members of Multiplex Association of India from Rajasthan have decided to not screen the film in view of the prevailing law-and-order situation.

“Members of the association are not going to screen the movie in Rajasthan as there is a risk to multiplexes,” he said. Shree Rajput Karni Sena chief patron Lokendra Singh Kalvi sought to pin the blame for the protests and violence on Bhansali and insisted that a “Janta curfew” will be imposed on theatres screening the movie. “We are sorry for Rani Padmavati who, along with 16,000 other women, had committed Jauhar for protecting self-respect. Protests and violence were allowed to be created by Sanjay Leela Bhansali,” he said.

“Janta curfew will be imposed at any cost on cinema halls. I may be arrested and bullets may be fired but this cannot stop us,” Kalvi said and claimed that his outfit has support of cinema hall owners and film distributors. He claimed that Shiv Sena leaders had assured the Karni Sena of support on the issue in Maharashtra.

PTI

Fierce protests continue in Rajasthan

As protests against the period drama intensified, Rajasthan Home minister Gulab Chand Kataria said no theatre in the state is ready to screen the movie.

“No theatre in the state is ready to screen the film. In such circumstances, they (protesters) should also go for legal options from the view point of history and society and for the honour of the state.

“They should go to court again and present their logic to get relief,” Kataria said in Alwar, adding the protesters should not take law in hands. “It is our duty to maintain law and order and that we will do, but we have also requested the agitators that if they want to protest they have their right but they should do so in a democratic manner,” he said.

PTI

In the last 24 hours, Karni Sena members protesting the movie allegedly damaged two state roadways buses in Jaipur and blocked a road in the city’s Kalwar area while, scores of activists were held in Mumbai and Nashik.

Schools in Gurgaon to remain shut today

After the attack on a school bus by anti-Padmaavat protestors, some reputed schools in Gurgaon have decided to remain shut till Sunday in view of the violence over the controversial films release.

The schools which have decided to shut down till Sunday includes Pathways school, G D Goenka school, Shiv Nadar school and Delhi Public School.

Amid widespread protests against Padmaavat, the film’s lead actor Ranveer Singh said today that he is proud to feature in a movie, the whole country can take pride in.

Ranveer, who will be essaying the character of Alauddin Khilji in the period drama opposite Deepika Padukone, who plays Queen Padmavati, took to Twitter to thank the praise coming his way, and said he is overwhelmed by Padmaavat.

“I saw ‘Padmaavat’ in 3D last night. I am so overwhelmed with the film at this point that words fail me. I feel immensely blessed.

“I am so proud of my team. Team ‘Padmaavat’ for the win! High tens and monster hugs to everyone. I am relieved and happy to the reactions to my performance. Thank you all for your kind and generous praise,” he tweeted.

PTI

Five persons taken into custody by Gomti Nagar, Lucknow police station late last night for shouting slogans of ‘Jai Bhawani’ and ‘Jai Ma Padmaavat’ in in front of a multiplex.

Saurabh Sharma, 101reporters

Jaipur: Rajput Karni Sena calls for a massive protest today at 10am at Bawani Niketan College in Jaipur to carry out till Rajput Sabha Bhawan. Jaipur Karni Sena district President Deepender Singh Tamedia calls for the Rajput community to participate in Bharat Bandh today against release of Padmaavat. 

Ram Gopal Jat. 101reporters

Law student tries to immolate self to register his protest against Padmaavat in Lucknow. Local sources claim he is out of danger now and has been discharged from the hospital. The student has been kept at police lines for observation, police said.

Saurabh Sharma, 101Reporters

Suraj Pal Amu appeals to peacefully boycott Padmaavat, says matter will only get resolved when PM Modi or Amit Shah will speak

A school bus was attacked, wouldn't have been able to forgive ourselves had a child got injured. I appeal to protest peacefully. It'll end only when PM, HM or Amit Shah come forward to speak. I appeal everyone to boycott #Padmaavat. It'll add to nation's dignity: Suraj Pal Amu pic.twitter.com/1U8ie5GfRU

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Udaipur administration issues circular, bars school children from performing on ‘Ghoomar’ song at Republic Day

Amid a raging controversy over Padmaavat film, an administrative official in Udaipur has issued a circular to district education officers to not perform on the Ghoomar song of the period drama at cultural programmes on Republic Day.

“It is just an alert notification sent to district education officers so that any untoward incident does not occur,” Udaipur district collector Bishnu Charan Mallick said.

Sharad Yadav blames Haryana govt for law and order situation, asks people to show anger when time comes to vote

Law & order situation in Haryana is bad for different reasons. In Gurgaon now one School bus has been attacked against release of film Padmavat. Appeal to people to believe in Censor Board & non violence but to show their anger when time comes to form Govt in Centre & States.

— SHARAD YADAV (@SharadYadavMP) January 24, 2018

Haryana minister Anil Vij says cinema halls will be provided with security

Haryana CM had earlier said seeing the public sentiments, that cinema halls should not screen the movie. But SC gave the order, SC order is binding & CM has said that those cinema halls who want to screen the movie will be provided security: Anil Vij,Haryana Minister#Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/BDuMHjAnNE

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Thane multiplexs screen film amid tight security

Thane multiplexes that had cancelled paid premiere of Padmaavat at the last minute as a pre-emptive measure are now going ahead with night shows as no untoward incident took place during the day and the situation seems normal. Police security will remain at malls throughout the weekend. 

Debdutta Mohanty/ 101 reporters

Children somehow took cover in bus and escaped attack: GD Goenka school staffer on the attack on school bus

As soon as we came out of the school the bus was attacked. Even the police could not control them. The children somehow took cover inside the bus.: School staff on their school bus attacked by vandals in protest against release of #Padmavaat in Gurugram, #Haryana pic.twitter.com/4mebxa2jNB

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Section 144 imposed by Ghaziabad district administration in view of Padmaavat protest

Congress questions Manohar Lal Khattar govt over ‘break down of law and order’

Video by Sat Singh/10reporters

If all govt’s and SC can’t get one film released how can we expect investments to flow in, asks Arvind Kejriwal

​

If all state govts, central govt and SC together cannot get one movie released and run safely, how can we expect investments to flow in? Forget FDI, even local investors wud feel hesitant. Not gud for already dwindling economy. Bad for jobs

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 24, 2018

Why is there a problem on Padmaavat only in BJP-ruled states, asks Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi

​

Height of complicity, prevarication &hypocracy: problems re Padmavat only in bjp states;they file in sc 2change its earlier order;ASG appears; vandalising goons deny Assn with any orgn; leaders say, arrest if guilty; nt a single leader arrested by state! How convenient!

— Abhishek Singhvi (@DrAMSinghvi) January 24, 2018

Karni Sena blocked Jaipur-Delhi highway at Jaipur to protest against Padmaavat’s release

Vidoe by Ram Gopal Jat/101Reporters

Gujarat Govt meets Rajput leaders, convinces them to refrain from participating in “Bharat Bandh”

According to a report in The Indian Express , Gujarat ministers met representatives of at least seven Rajput organisations in Gandhinagar and convinced them to refrain from participating in the “Bharat bandh” called to protest the release of the Bollywood film “Padmaavat” on Thursday.

The meeting held with 15-odd leaders was chaired by minister for law and justice Bhupendrasinh Chudasma and minister of state for home Pradeepsinh Jadeja.

Padmaavat expected to release across 5,000 screens globally 

#Padmaavat as a "normal" release is expected to unfurl in more than 5000 screens Globally in all languages across 2D, 3D, Imax & Imax 3D screens 💪💞🔥💪💞🔥@deepikapadukone @shahidkapoor @RanveerOfficial

— Girish Johar (@girishjohar) January 24, 2018

Suresh Prabhu reacts on Padmaavat protests, says such incidents tarnish India’s image internationally

Speaking to India Today in Davos, Union minister Suresh Prabhu said that the such incidents are condemnable and tarnish the image of India internationally. 

He said that such things sometimes gets blown up which is unfortunate.

Meanwhile, as protesters go on rampage across parts of country, #IndiaWithPadmavat tops twitter trends

Multiplexes in 4 states won’t screen film

The Multiplex Association of India, which represents about 75 per cent of multiplex owners, said the film would not be screened in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Goa.

“We have decided not to play the film in four states — Rajasthan, Gujarat, MP and Goa — as the local management has told us that the law and order situation is not conducive,” Deepak Asher, president of the association, told PTI.

Section 144 imposed in Gurugram

Section 144 imposed in district. It'll be in effect till 28th Jan. Executive Magistrates & police forces deployed at sensitive places. We've appealed people to protest peacefully, if they must. No order to close school/colleges/bars: Vinay Pratap Singh, DM #Gurugram #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/0QDRDElk1a

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Karni Sena turns violent in Sikar of Rajasthan, roadways bus put on fire

A violent mob led by Karni Sena members burnt down a bus in Sikar district of Rajasthan, against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s controversial period drama, Padmaavat. Protesters also held demonstrations on roads causing massive traffic snarls in the area. Windows of many roadways buses were also smashed by members of Karni Sena.

Ram Gopal Jat/101Reporters

Violence saddening, but no one can stop anger from spilling on roads: Rajput Karni Sena chief

Jo bhi ho raha hai dukhad hai, galat hai, par ab mann ki jwala ko sadkon pe dhadhakne se koi rok nhi sakta, main bhi nhi: Lokendra Singh Kalvi, Rajput Karni Sena #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/ZCzbH0gIMS

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Protesters go on rampage in movie hall in Jammu

​

Fringe group activists on Wednesday targeted a cinema hall breaking window panes and allegedly trying a burn a ticketing counter as a protest against the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s period drama Padmaavat tomorrow.  

A staffer of KC Central Cinema Hall (Indira) said that over 50 miscreants arrived at the hall, broke the window panes and went on rampage besides trying to set afire the ticketing counter.

As protests rage in parts of India, Thane cinemaplex to screen Padmaavat on all screens, all day

Amid raging protests over the film Padmaavat, Thane’s Viviana Mall will screen the controversial film on 13 of its 14 screens throughout tomorrow. According to mall management, this is unprecedented and no movie has received such blanket coverage.

Multiplexes owners have deployed as much as four times the normal security force than usual. They have hired bouncers apart from the regular police deployment.  Earlier in the day, few multiplexes in Mumbai and Thane, including Viviana mall and Korum Mall, had to cancel paid premiers of the film today, owing to security concerns. 
 

Debdutta Mohanty, 101Reporters

Protest against Padmaavat in Gorakhpur

​Cinema halls and multiplexes in Yogi Adityanath’s home turf appeared disinclined to exhibit Snajay Leela Bhansali’s period drama Padmaavat as fringe groups continued to oppose its release.

A large number of people belonging to the Akhil Bhartiya Kshatriya Samaj today held a protest before the district magistrate’s office in Gorakhpur against the Bollywood film and also gave a memorandum to the district magistrate in this regard. Meanwhile, sources said that a cinema at city mall in Gorakhpur which was scheduled to screen the movie tomorrow had now decided not to show it. 

PTI

Movie screening underway peacefully in parts of Mumbai

The show must go on! #Padmaavat previews begin peacefully in #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/w9l0EJQ8Hq

— Rohit Khilnani (@rohitkhilnani) January 24, 2018

Watch: Protesters attacked school bus in Gurugram while children were inside it

Haryana: A school bus attacked by vandals protesting against release of #Padmavaat in #Gurugram (Pictures from User Video) pic.twitter.com/rAQTPJaILD

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Haryana ADGP claims law and order situation under control

Haryana Additional General of Police said, “We have issued directions to field units and additional police forces have been sent out with direction that law and order shall be maintained throughout the state. Maximum possible preventive arrangements will remain in place for tomorrow ahead of the release.”

Law and Order situation is under control. At some places people tried to take law in their hands, situation has been controlled promptly and action has been initiated against the hooligans: Mohd. Akil, ADGP Law & Order, Haryana #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/pjeCa5286h

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Meanwhile in Madhya Pradesh…

Members of Rashtravadi Pratap Sena Party, Rajput Samaj and Karni Sena protested near Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan’s official residence. The protesters were seeking a ban on the movie.

Megha Gajbhiye, 101reporters.

Gurugram Police detains 20 people after protesters attack school bus

According to CNN-News 18, the Gurugram Police has detained 20 protesters after a mob stone-pelted a school bus. A video shows small children crouching under bus seats and crying out of fear.

Padmaavat screening suspended by Wave cinemas in Lucknow. A notice was posted outside the premises regarding the development. 

Saurabh Sharma, 101reporters

Karni Sena members ask why Bhansali is running away from answering questions. 

Nobody should take law and order into their hands but we have a right to protest. We condemn violence. But, why is Bhansali running away from answering questions: Shiv Singh, Leader, Karni Sena #IndiaWithPadmaavat

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 24, 2018

#BREAKING - All members of the Multiplex Association have, on their own individual violation, taken a decision not to screen the film #Padmaavat at any of their multiplexes in Rajasthan #IWillSeePadmaavat. pic.twitter.com/6cJhGhgkfT

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

#IWillSeePadmaavat - Security forces deployed outside INOX, Dreamz in Gurugram ahead of the release of #Padmavaat tomorrow. | ANI pic.twitter.com/3DqeWPtIQ1

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Video of GD Goenka bus in Bhondsi, Gurugram being attacked by goons protesting Padmaavat. The video reveals windows were broken with stones children can be heard crying. 

Video by Sat Singh

Multiplexes at Thane malls have deployed as much as four times the normal security force than usual. For Padmaavat, they have hired bouncers too, who are summoned only for special events such as appearances of celebrities at the theatres.

Debdutta Mohanty from Thane, 101Reporters

Paid premiere of Padmaavat cancelled at a few multiplexes in Mumbai and Thane, including Viviana mall and Korum Mall, owing to security concerns.

(In picture: additional police security at Korum Mall, Thane, on Wednesday.)

Debdutta Mohanty from Thane, 101Reporters

DC Gurugram claims no such order to shut bars and restaurants has been passed. 

NO ORDER regarding closure of pubs & bars from 7 PM onwards today has been issued by District Administration. This clarification is being issued due to related news being circulated in media. Situation is peaceful and schools, colleges and offices to open normally tomorrow.

— DC Gurugram (@DC_Gurugram) January 24, 2018

Lokendra Kalvi tells Times Now that he is ready to be arrested for this chaos. On being asked if he will reimburse the public of multiple crores of loss because of vandalism and protests across the country, he puts the blame on Sanjay Leela Bhansali. 

Is Rajput honour going to be built on the foundation of bullying children? #IndiaWithPadmaavat pic.twitter.com/eOpYiBz3K0

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 24, 2018

Times Now reports that Karni Sena protestors claim that if the film had been banned earlier, none of these protests would happen. 

'If this would have been banned earlier, then these people wouldn’t have a chance to do this', says Ajit Singh Mamdoli, Leader, Karni Sena, when confronted by @AnchorAnandN #IndiaWithPadmaavat pic.twitter.com/v4jYsZDzqp

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 24, 2018

BJP spokesperson Raman Malik says they will hold a press conference at 7 pm today to discuss the matter at hand.

This is the official stance of Karni Sena on being asked by News 18 reporters whether they found no shame in attacking kids over the Padmaavat issue.

#BREAKING #EXCLUSIVE | Sanjay Leela Bhansali ko sharam aani chaiye for making @filmpadmaavat. All this wasn’t pre-planned: Vivek Shekhawat, Karni Sena, tells @sanket | #IWillSeePadmaavat

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Protestors in Ghaziabad chant “Sanjay Leela Bhansali hai hai”  in protest of the release of Padmaavat.

Video by Rishabh Bharadwaj, 101Reporters

Karni Sena protesors attack school bus of GD Goenka School, in Gurugram. At 4:30 pm today (Wednesday, 25 January), the protests took place, reports News 18.

“Close to 50-60 young men stalled the bus and started attacking the bus. They were carrying weapons,” claims the school bus driver. Visuals on News18 show the children terrified and crying. 

#BREAKING | Karni Sena goons attack school bus with kids on board in Gurugram | #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/YfqPriG0LC

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Car torched in Bhopal by protestors against Padmaavat. Local police have informed that 4 people have been detained in the process and the situation is under control at the moment.

Sadiq Khan | 101 Reporters

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday raised questions over the inability of the state and central governments in ensuring the safe release of controversial movie Padmaavat amid violent protests by a Rajput group.

“If all state gov(ernmen)ts, central gov(ernmen)t and (the) Supreme Court together cannot get one movie released and run safely, how can we expect investments to flow in,” Kejriwal tweeted.

“Forget FDI, even local investors (will) feel hesitant. Not good for already dwindling economy. Bad for jobs.” 

The tweet came after Karni Sena, at the forefront of anti-Padmaavat protests, threatened that its activists won’t let the Sanjay Leela Bansali directorial be screened in movie halls because it depicts Rajput queen Padmavati in less than honourable light.

IANS

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government will ensure safety to theatres running the much-awaited movie Padmaavat, Health Minister Siddharth Nath Singh said on Wednesday.

“We will ensure safety to the theatres and take stern action against those taking law and order into their hands,” Siddharth Nath Singh, who is also the government spokesman, told IANS.

He said the law and order situation in the state has improved since the Bharatiya Janata Party took power last year. “Now there is no more ‘jungleraj’ and people feel safe,” he said.

IANS

Gujarat won’t screen Padmaavat inspite of Supreme Court orders to clear film.

Many multiplexes in Delhi-NCR region are planning to cancel shows in wake of violent protests around the area.

Meanwhile, PVR meerut cancels Padmaavat premiere tonight.

Chaos and ruckus created by protesters at #Delhi's Prashant Vihar against film #Padmaavat, cars vandalised. pic.twitter.com/NGKw5TFjPE

— NBT Dilli (@NBTDilli) January 24, 2018

Meraj cinema closed in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh.
 
Video by Hitesh Sharma, 101reporters

Lathi charge resorted by police on protesters in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. 

Saurabh Sharma, 101 Reporters

Several sources from Rajasthan have informed that almost no theatre owner or multiplex owner will screen the film. Looks like people in Rajasthan won’t be able to watch Padmaavat. 

#BREAKING - Rajasthan distributor association decides not to release #Padmaavat #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/sEzwZQQnDp

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Protests in Chittorgarh against the release. 

#BREAKING - Movietime in Omaxe, Greater Noida decides to cancel #Padmaavat shows. #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/DZxl6RKPWF

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Protests in Jammu against the release of the film

Ticket counter of Indra Cinemas in Jammu has been vandalized, an eyewitness says protesters raised slogans against the movie #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/vCy5pGkaNc

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Karni Sena chief tells News 18: Will impose junta curfew.

 PSV mall in Meerut, where members of different groups are protesting against the release. 

Times Now reports that several women, 60-70 in total in Chittor Fort, are protesting in front of the Jauhar temple, threatening to commit Jauhar if the film releases. 

Meanwhile thousands of Rajput women have threatened Jauhar. Ground report by Tushar #IndiaWithPadmaavat pic.twitter.com/8HqFDnhMnG

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 24, 2018

Protests continue in Meerut against the film. 

From PSV mall in Meerut where members of different groups are protesting against the release. Heavy police forces deployed.

Sadiq Khan / 101 reporters

Security tightened in several parts of the country inspite of SC clearance of the film.

Visited two malls in Raipur and both had tight security outside the main entrance and inside the theatres.
Despite the fact that it is not banned in Chattisgrah.
Paid previews (3D) starts here after 6pm today. #Padmaavat

— @nmol (@anmoljaiswal333) January 24, 2018

Protest in Chittorhgarh fort against the film’s release.

Rajasthan: Protests staged in the area near Chittorgarh Fort in protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/Sybospb4u6

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Karni Sena protestors set a Haryana roadways bus on fire at Bhondsi on release of Padmaavat in Gurugram. 

Sat Singh, 101reporters.com

Police deployment outside star mall for special screening of padmaavat in Gurugram. Photos by Sat Singh/101reporters.com

Picture from JSV mall in Varanasi. Heated arguments between police and Hindu Dharmrakshak group over Padmaavat release

Protest in Lucknow in front of Wave mall. Security tightened.

Saurabh, 101reporters, Lucknow

Meerut: Security tightened at PVS mall after stones were pelted by unknown people in protest against Padmaavat

Massive protests in Delhi’s Prashant Vihar

#KarniSena implementing #AcheDin in #Delhi's Prashant Vihar.
Thanks Maggi Ji.#Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/kN6Pw6UZvz

— Assam Tweeter (@AssamTweeter) January 24, 2018

Protest by Hindu groups in Saharanpur of Uttar Pradesh.

News 18 TV reports: The situation is mostly under control and additional forces have been sent, says Raman Malik of BJP about the protests in Haryana. 

#NewsAlert - Karni Sena protesters gathered outside PVR Rohini, New Delhi at around 3:15 PM and chanted anti Bhansali/#Padmaavat slogans. They also vandalised some vehicles. #IWillSeePadmaavat pic.twitter.com/pLBz09Kvkm

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2018

Bars and pubs to remain shut in wake of the protests in Gurugram.

Clubs & Bars in Gurugram ordered to be closed from 7 pm on 24th January till further order in the light of protests against #Padmavaat. Action to be taken against defaulters. #Haryana

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2018

Former Uttar Pradesh cadre IAS officer Surya Pratap Singh has alleged that underworld money has been used by Sanjay Leela Bhansali in the movie.

Stone pelting at PVS mall in Meerut. Heavy police force deployed. 

Sadiq Khan, 101reporters, Meerut